Family Feud: KTM 390 Duke vs 390 Adventure

The KTM 390 Adventure has been launched at Rs 2.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Many (we included) feel that the pricing is on the higher side. For Rs 51,000 less, you get the 390 Duke, which offers similar performance and matching features. But the 390 Adventure can go places the Duke can’t. So, which KTM should you go for? We help you decide. 

 Note: While the 390 Adventure is a BS6-compliant motorcycle, the 390 Duke currently on sale is a BS4-compliant model. The upcoming BS6 390 Duke will be more expensive and the price difference between the BS6 models of the Duke and Adventure will be lesser. 

Also read: KTM 390 Duke: First Ride Review

Design:

While the 390 Duke has a sharper minimalist design, the 390 Adventure goes the other way and feels like a larger machine. Being an ADV, the seat height is a lofty 855mm -- 25mm taller than the already tall 390 Duke’s seat. It, however, gets a larger 14.5-litre fuel tank and better ground clearance.  

Both motorcycles get features like LED lighting and colour TFT instrument console. However, the 390 Adventure gets an adjustable windshield to keep the rider comfortable during high-speed touring. It also gets small additions like serrated footpegs, foldable brake, gearshift levers, and a 12V charging socket below the TFT screen.

Also read: KTM 390 Adventure: Details You Might Have Missed 

 Performance:

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Despite the BS6 updates, the India-spec 390 Adventure makes the same power and torque as the 390 Duke. Even the gearing is identical. However, the 390 Adventure should feel slightly slower given that it has 13kg extra weight to lug around. So overall, you will have more fun on the Duke. But the 390 Adventure gets more value thanks to the inclusion of lean-sensing traction control. This should allow you to ride the motorcycle fast over loose surfaces without any worry.  

Underpinnings:

Both motorcycles have a different focus as reflected in their underpinnings. The 390 Adventure gets an off-road-focused long-travel WP Apex suspension. It has 43mm upside-down forks and a rear monoshock that’s adjustable for preload and rebound. The KTM, on the other hand, gets road-spec WP suspension. For better-off-roadability, the 390 Adventure gets a larger 19-inch front wheel and dual-purpose Metzeler Tourance tyres. While the braking setup remains the same including switchable ABS, the 390 Adventure gets cornering ABS.

Verdict:

The KTM 390 Duke is a sharp, engaging and dynamically competent motorcycle that’s fun to blitz around corners or the racetrack. It is also easy to ride fast in the city thanks to its quick reflexes and light-footed nature. However, the upright riding position and lack of a windscreen mean it isn't exactly touring friendly. Here’s where the 390 Adventure steps in. Its touring friendly bodywork means you should be able to strap on your luggage comfortably and devour miles in comfort and speed. Its long-travel suspension should soak up our bad road surfaces and also tackle mild off-road situations -- something the Duke is not adept at. So, if you’re looking for a capable entry-level tourer that will do some mild off-roading when asked to, we think you should spend the extra money and go for the 390 Adventure. For everything else, there is the 390 Duke.